Farmers Union convention Jan. 22-24

COLUMBUS -Hundreds of family farmers will gather in Columbus, Ohio, Jan. 22-24 for Ohio Farmers Union’s 70th annual convention.

The organization’s grassroots policy-making convention will revolve around the theme: “Agriculture is a family enterprise.”

Annual meeting. “For 70 years, Ohio Farmers Union members have gathered to exchange fellowship and craft policy in support of their family farms and communities,” said president Joseph Logan.

“Again this year we renew our pledge to continue the effort to make a place for family farms in Ohio’s future.”

Policies. The three-day event will be held in the state’s capital at the Radisson Airport Hotel and Conference Center.

Convention delegates will consider and adopt the 2004 OFU policy program that will be used to set the family farm organization’s legislative priorities.

In addition, convention delegates will elect a president and vice president to lead the organization for the next two years.

Guest speakers. Speakers John Stevenson, agricultural liaison for U.S. Senator George V. Voinovich; and Steve Cady, executive director for the Organization for Competitive Markets, are featured Jan. 22.

In addition, two educational legislative discussion sessions will be held providing updates on governmental issues at both a state and national level.

A full slate of speakers will address convention attendees Jan. 24, including National Farmers Union President Dave Frederickson and Missouri Farmers Union President Russ Kremer.

Alan Guebert, award-winning freelance agricultural journalist, is scheduled as the keynote speaker for Friday evening’s banquet.

Awards. In addition, OFU will recognize outstanding individuals in agriculture for their work over the past year.

The convention will conclude with a luncheon featuring an address by Congressman Ted Strickland.